As diabetic eye problems are left untreated, proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) can develop. Blocked blood vessels from ischemia can lead to the growth of new abnormal blood vessels on the retina (called neovascularization) which can damage the retina by causing wrinkling or retinal detachment. Neovascularization can even lead to glaucoma, damage to the optic nerve that carries images from your eye to your brain.  

Maintaining strict control of blood sugar and blood pressure, as well as having regular diabetic retinopathy screenings by your Eye M.D., are keys to preventing diabetic retinopathy and vision loss.